Outer Hebrides broadband network wins major European award

A project which aims to deliver wireless broadband across the Outer Hebrides has scooped a major European award at the Bridging the Broadband Gap two-day conference in Brussels.

The Connected Communities broadband network received the award last Tuesday in recognition of the project's innovative approach and outstanding effort to bringing broadband services to rural areas. The network was also selected as an example of best practice in connecting rural areas to the regional economy.

The top fifty projects out of 160 that applied throughout Europe were invited to attend the prestigious conference with the award winners selected by votes cast by the 600 conference attendees.

The Outer Hebrides Connected Communities project delivers an innovative high performance broadband wireless network from Barra to the Butt of Lewis using new and existing masts at strategic points throughout the five main islands. 

The network connects a diverse range of organisations and individuals placing the Outer Hebrides at the forefront of broadband developments in rural areas.

The project is supported by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (CnES) and HIE Innse Gall.  Collecting the award on the night were, Donnie Morrison from HIE Innse Gall, along with Stuart Robertson, head of transport and telecoms at Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), CnES' Joe MacPhee and Neil Watt and Lawrence Mears from Atkins - the consultants that design and manage the project.

Archie Campbell, chair of the Sustainable Development Committee said:  "To get recognition at this level for our efforts to bring broadband to the Highlands and Islands and to have been chosen ahead of nine other UK projects is a major achievement. 

"Congratulations to all involved in the project.  This award provides further evidence of delivering on our commitment under the Creating Communities of the Future regeneration strategy."

Finlay Macdonald, chairman of HIE Innse Gall, said:  "I am delighted that Connected Communities has won a major award.  Our focus on supporting the creation of knowledge economy jobs and removing barriers to inward investment is delivering results.  Increasing coverage is now our major focus over the next few months".

A further phase of connecting the most remote areas currently not receiving a service is being implemented through the Community Broadband Initiative.  By the end of 2007 the Outer Hebrides will have the most advanced and comprehensive connectivity of any rural area in the UK.

To find out more about the Connected Communities project please visit www.hebrides.net